4 prospects who could take Christian McCaffrey to new heights in 2021
By Dean Jones
Chuba Hubbard – RB (Oklahoma State)
Losing Mike Davies to the Atlanta Falcons in free agency means the Carolina Panthers are on the lookout for a primary backup to slot behind Christian McCaffrey. Whether the likes of Rodney Smith, Trenton Cannon, or Reggie Bonnafon are ready to assume the role is up for debate, so it might be worth taking a college prospect in the later rounds that come with a ton of upside.
If the Panthers opt to go in this particular direction, then someone like Chuba Hubbard should enter the discussion. A prolific back during his time at Oklahoma State, the prospect went over 2,000 yards rushing and 21 touchdowns in 2019, which was followed up with 621 yards and five scores from just seven games last time out.
Hubbard is a physical runner who can gain yards off the edge or in-between the tackles. He is also a big contributor in the passing game – although this needs some work – which means he is the perfect replacement for McCaffrey if the former Stanford sensation is forced to spend any more time on the sidelines in 2021.
The prospect could also be used in some potential two-back sets alongside McCaffrey, in addition to coming in for the odd play here or there when Carolina’s bell-cow needs some rest. There is a lot to like about Hubbard’s chances of forging a successful career in the NFL. But whether he can carry the load for a team full-time or not is questionable.